Keep the washer dry between loads and watch its water connections
Trapped moisture can create odor, while an unnoticed hose, seal, drain, or connection leak can damage the room around the washer.
When it usually needs attention
Ongoing home-care habit
WaterSense recommends appropriate detergent use, manufacturer care, and letting moisture evaporate after use; connection service remains condition- and model-specific.
When this guide applies
Applies whenever a clothes washer is confirmed; pump-filter care remains a separate model-specific branch.
What to do
Use the detergent and loading guidance for the exact model, leave the door or lid positioned as the manufacturer directs after use, and look for drips, dampness, bulging hoses, or movement without pulling the machine out.
Applies when: Applies whenever a clothes washer is confirmed; pump-filter care remains a separate model-specific branch.
Who should handle it: Residents may use and observe the washer; supply, drain, wiring, gas on a combination appliance, installation, and internal repair belong to the responsible owner and qualified service.
Tools
- Exact washer manual
- Flashlight
- Dry paper towel for a safely reachable drip
Parts and supplies
- Correct detergent for the exact machine and load
- Absorbent towel for a small clean-water drip
Safety gear
- Household gloves for ordinary residue
- Slip-resistant footwear
Before you start
- Washer stable and not operating during the external check
- Keep children and pets away from an open machine
Power, water, or fuel shutoffs
- Know the washer supply valves but do not force a stuck or leaking valve
- Keep plugs and controls dry
Cleaner or chemical limits
Use only the washer's approved self-clean cycle and product; never mix bleach, vinegar, ammonia, detergent, disinfectant, or descaler.
Stop and get help when
- Stop for an active leak, wet electrical area, damaged hose or cord, burning odor, violent movement, repeated drainage failure, or a machine that must be pulled out
Who to call: Use the responsible owner plus qualified appliance, plumbing, electrical, or water-mitigation service for leaks, hoses, installation, wiring, drainage, or internal work.
Reviewed sources
- Home MaintenanceEPA WaterSense · reviewed July 13, 2026
- Washing Machine MaintenanceSamsung — manufacturer example, not evidence of your home’s brand · reviewed July 13, 2026
EPA supports general moisture and use care; the manufacturer example does not set a universal cleaning or hose-replacement interval.